IFMST History

In today’s era, with the expansion of the use of new devices and technologies, as well as the change in the lifestyle and way of employment of people and the expansion of apartment living in cities, the physical activity of citizens has decreased drastically, which by itself causes inactivity, insufficient sports activity and the improper nutrition pattern, and finally, the growing rate of overweightness and obesity in cities. In this regard, municipalities with a wide range of civil and service duties in the field of development should design detailed plans in issues related to the health and vitality of the society, meanwhile, the role of sports and physical activities as one of its future solutions to achieve the above necessity and to optimize the self-confidence and responsibility of the members of the target community as well as their general participation in the field of social activity is a necessary and undeniable factor. Today, sport is an important resort in motivating travel and tourism, in fact, sports stadiums and venues are becoming a tourist destination instead of just a place for movement activities. Holding sports competitions and competitive and non-competitive events and festivals adds the attractiveness of cities and triggers an incentive for tourists to travel. This component causes prosperity and development of cities, brings sustainable income generation for cities and as a result, the economic growth of the country. Furthermore, commercial activities, income boost and job opportunity creation are the essential economic fruits of the tourism industry. Moreover, health, inspiration of vitality and tourism in an urban life are among the important indicators set in the goals and duties of municipalities, and on this basis, the International Federation of Sports and Tourism of Municipalities has been established by predicting and forming sports and welfare institutions related to this issue.

The International Federation of Sports and Tourism of Municipalities (IFMST) is a non-governmental organization with a legal personality which was established based on the policy and principles of amateur sports and with the aim of developing sports and tourism (urban sports tourism) in two areas of citizenship and municipal employees. This federation is a global organization that comprises international federations and municipalities of different countries. It works as the highest competent authority in the fields covered IFMST started its international activity in 2023 by a group of sports and tourism activists from different countries in Turkey.

Search